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HomeRepair HelpCraftsman Small Engine RepairCraftsman Small engine runs poorly Repair
Craftsman Small engine runs poorly
If your Craftsman small engine runs poorly, runs rough, sputters, surges, or loses power, start with the carburetor. A clogged carburetor is the most common cause, especially when stale or ethanol-blended fuel has been left in the carburetor during the off-season. As fuel evaporates, it leaves a sticky residue that restricts the passages and affects the air-fuel mixture. Clean the carburetor with carburetor cleaner, then rebuild or replace it if cleaning does not correct the problem. A Craftsman small engine carburetor repair kit may include the gaskets, needle valve, and other parts needed for the repair. Next, inspect the spark plug for carbon buildup, a cracked insulator, or a damaged electrode, and test it for a strong spark while the engine cranks. A clogged fuel filter can also cause an engine running rough condition, particularly after old fuel has been stored in the fuel tank. Drain the fuel and replace the filter if needed. Enter your model number to find the exact replacement carburetor, spark plug, fuel filter, or repair kit for your specific Craftsman engine.
01 - Craftsman Small Engine Carburetor
The carburetor might be clogged. A clogged carburetor is most commonly caused by leaving fuel in the engine for a long period of time. Over time, some of the ingredients in the fuel may evaporate, leaving behind a thicker, stickier substance. This sticky fuel can clog up the carburetor and cause the engine to run roughly. If the carburetor is clogged, try cleaning it with carburetor cleaner. If cleaning the carburetor isn’t effective, rebuild or replace the entire carburetor.
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02 - Craftsman Small Engine Carburetor Repair Kit
The carburetor might be clogged. A clogged carburetor is most commonly caused by leaving fuel in the engine for a long period of time. Over time, some of the ingredients in the fuel may evaporate, leaving behind a thicker, stickier substance. This sticky fuel can clog up the carburetor and cause the engine to run roughly. If the carburetor is clogged, try cleaning it with carburetor cleaner. If cleaning the carburetor isn’t effective, rebuild or replace the entire carburetor.
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03 - Craftsman Small Engine Spark Plug
Inspect the spark plug for signs of wear or damage. If the porcelain insulator is cracked, an electrode is burned away or damaged, or there is heavy carbon buildup at the electrode, replace the spark plug. To determine if the spark plug is defective, use a spark plug tester. You should see a strong spark between the tester’s terminals when the engine is cranking. If there is no spark, this indicates that the spark plug is defective and should be replaced.
Highly Likely
04 - Craftsman Small Engine Fuel Filter
The fuel filter might be clogged. A clogged fuel filter is most commonly caused by leaving fuel in the engine for a long period of time. Over time, some of the ingredients in the fuel may evaporate, leaving behind a thicker, stickier substance. This sticky fuel can clog up the fuel filter and cause the engine to run roughly. If old fuel was left in the engine, drain the old fuel from the fuel tank and replace the fuel filter.
Less Common
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Craftsman small engine running rough or surging?
Can a bad spark plug cause a Craftsman small engine to run poorly?
Could a clogged fuel filter be causing my Craftsman engine to sputter or lose power?
How do I find the correct replacement part for my Craftsman small engine?
What should I check before taking apart a Craftsman small engine that runs poorly?
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